chromatin vs. chromatid

chromatin vs. chromatid: What's the difference?

Chromatin refers to a substance found in the cell nucleus that’s composed primarily of DNA and proteins. When cells divide, chromatin condenses to form chromosomes which split into two identical strands called chromatids. Each chromatid then becomes a chromosome in each new cell that is formed.

chromatin

[kroh-muh-tin] / ˈkroʊ mə tɪn /

noun

Cell Biology.

the readily stainable substance of a cell nucleus, consisting of DNA, RNA, and various proteins, that forms chromosomes during cell division.

chromatid

[kroh-muh-tid] / ˈkroʊ mə tɪd /

noun

Genetics.

one of two identical chromosomal strands into which a chromosome splits longitudinally preparatory to cell division.